10 Things to Do This September to Slow Down (and Romanticize Easing Into Fall)

September is basically the Thursday of the year. It’s not quite fall, not quite summer. You’re still wearing sandals but suddenly craving soup. It’s confusing, cozy, chaotic, but full of potential.

I’m here to say: You do not have to rush into fall like it’s a limited-time-only PSL. Let’s take it slow, intentional, and slightly elevated (because obviously). Here are 10 ways I’m easing into the season, and how you can too.

1. Celebrate the Unofficial Last Day of Summer

Let me say this louder for the people in the back: summer doesn’t end with Labour Day.
Not in this house. Not on this blog.

The official last day of summer is September 22, and we will be enjoying every last drop of it. Preferably with a backyard BBQ, maybe some grilled peaches, and a cold drink in hand. Invite friends or keep it intimate with your partner or family.

Take a few minutes to reflect on your favorite summer memories (like that one time you got literally rained on with ants falling from a tree).

This is your summer send-off, your soft goodbye. Let it be beautiful.

2. Refresh That Inbox (Yes, That One)

If your inbox is currently a digital landfill of sales alerts and newsletters you don’t remember subscribing to in 2019… it’s time.

September is your clean slate month.

Start slow. Unsubscribe from anything that doesn’t “spark joy” (or serve a purpose). Ask yourself: “Would I open this on purpose?” If not, delete and unsubscribe.

Make space for things that do serve you—like newsletters from your favorite lifestyle blogs (ahem, me).

3. Start (or Join) a Supper Club

Want to stay social as the weather gets cooler but don’t want to leave your house? A supper club is your answer.

Gather a few friends who also love to cook, pick a cookbook or theme (think: cozy fall comfort food or “pasta night gone wild”), and take turns hosting. The only rule? Everyone must try something new and bring a healthy appetite.

It’s low effort, high reward—and the food is always better than takeout. Connection over carbs is peak seasonal joy.

4. Visit a Farmers Market (Before They Go into Hibernation)

September is peak produce. Tomatoes are still sweet, apples are coming in hot, and squash is making its seasonal debut.

Hit your local farmers market for fresh finds, crisp air, and get more end of summer tomatoes than you know what to do with.

Also: local honey, jams, sauces, and baked goods are perfect for gifting (hello Holidays) … or hoarding for yourself.

5. Romanticize Your Sunday Routine

Light a candle. Put on your “cozy fall vibes” playlist. Water your plants, bake something comforting, like my Healthy Apple and Cinnamon Breakfast Muffins.

Take an hour or two to prep your week: meal plan, tidy up, set the vibe. I shared more about my full Sunday routine in my first newsletter, but just know: this is the most powerful thing you can do for your mental health.

6. Choose a New Fall Scent

There’s nothing quite like finding your signature fall scent.
This could be:

• A warm musk or oud-based perfume
• A candle that smells like “I want to quit my job and become a Lumberjack”
• An essential oil blend of clove, cedarwood, and a hint of cinnamon

Find something that grounds you and makes your home feel like the cozy sanctuary it is. You’re not just lighting a candle, you’re setting a tone. A mood. A vibe.

7. Refresh the Wardrobe (No, Not Full Sweaters Yet)

Before you dive into full flannel mode, try this:
Start layering your favorite summer pieces with fall basics. A denim jacket over your favourite summer fit. Light knits with your linen pants or shorts. Keep the color, add the warmth. If you know me, my favorite thing is to LAYER this time of year…or all year round tbh.

There’s no rush to pull out the big coats (yet). Let your wardrobe ease into fall. Like dipping your toe into a chilly lake…

8. Try a New Muffin Recipe

Nothing says “cozy” quite like a warm muffin fresh out of the oven. Muffins are basically edible hugs.

Whether it’s for school lunches, quick breakfasts, or afternoon tea (yes, we’re fancy now), muffins are a baking win.

Try one of these from my website:

• Pumpkin Walnut & Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Banana Pumpkin Bread — also muffin-izable.

Bake a batch, freeze half, and thank yourself later.

9. Plan a Picnic in the Park

Fall picnics > summer picnics. Hear me out:
No bugs. No sunburn. Just crunchy leaves, cool breezes, and sandwiches that don’t wilt.

Grab a cozy blanket, your favorite snacks, maybe a thermos of tea (or wine). Head to a park or even your backyard.

Bonus points if there’s a cheese board involved. Obviously.

10. Explore a Cute Small Town

I am a firm believer that a spontaneous afternoon road trip to a tiny charming town is one of life’s greatest joys.

Pop into a little café. Browse antique stores. Walk with a hot drink in hand like you’re in a Hallmark movie.

Not sure where to go? Ask friends for recs or just pick a direction and drive. That’s the adventure. The slow living moment. The dopamine hit you didn’t know you needed.

Final Thoughts

September is about easing in, not diving headfirst. Romanticizing your life doesn’t mean booking a cabin in the woods (though that sounds fab), it’s about noticing the details. Savoring the moment. Lighting the good candle on a Tuesday just because.

So try one or try all ten of these ideas. Let this be your permission slip to slow down and live more intentionally.

And remember: fall doesn’t officially begin until you say it does.